Defense Minister Elias Bou Saab received Friday Italian Ambassador to Lebanon Massimo Marotti, with talks focusing on Italy's support in strengthening the Lebanese naval forces.
As per the request of Ambassador Marotti to move to the formal negotiation stage between the two countries, and Italy's readiness to send an official delegation to start negotiations, Minister Bou Saab stressed that he will take up this issue with the President of the Republic and the Prime Minister to obtain a formal authorization in accordance with Article 52 of the Constitution.
It is to note that Minister Bou Saab has obtained earlier an official authorization to negotiate with the French side about the French offer.
Both sides agreed to accelerate steps in the next phase for the benefit of the Lebanese army.